York College holds spring commencement

York College held its spring commencement ceremony on Thursday, May 8, in the Campbell Student Activity Center. Friends and family gathered to see the class of 2014 complete their "York Experience" as they crossed the stage to collect their diplomas, along with a handshake and a hug from YC President Steve Eckman.

One hundred and two York College students received their bachelor’s degrees and 10 students received their associate’s degrees this spring.

Senator Greg Adams gave the commencement address. Adams, formerly the mayor of York and currently the speaker of the Nebraska Legislature, spoke about the importance of respect. Adams told students that the human need to be respected is “almost as important as your need to breathe or take nourishment.”

“When your life comes to an end, how do you want to be known?” Adams challenged. “Today you are respected. You have earned it,” he said, encouraging students to continue to lead lives worthy of respect.

Dr. Shane Mountjoy, York College provost, presented the Dean’s Award this year to Amber Clark, a business administration major from Appleton, Wisconsin, who graduated summa cum laude. The award is the highest academic honor given by the faculty to a graduate whose involvement and leadership are matched by their high academic success. Clark has been involved in a number of areas on campus during her years at YC, including: Beta Beta Sigma social club, Songfest, residence hall staff, student government, and Alpha Chi Academic Honor Society.